Re-signing with Vikings 'an option' for guard Charlie Johnson

Vikings guard Charlie Johnson (74) congratulates Adrian Peterson after a touchdown in Minnesota's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in London last season. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Vikings running back Adrian Peterson loves his offensive linemen so much he went so far as to buy them snowmobiles as thanks for his 2,097-yard rushing season in 2012.

The Vikings have one free agent on that line, left guard Charlie Johnson, who said Tuesday that re-signing with the Vikings was "an option."

"I think anybody would like to stay where they have been for the most part," said Johnson, who has played for the Vikings the past three seasons. "I'm comfortable with the city, my teammates and my offensive line coach (Jeff Davidson). It would be ideal to return, but it's not an ideal world."

Johnson said he also has a "couple of other options" as free agency got underway Tuesday. He declined to name those teams but said he hopes to make a decision by the end of the week.

A source said the Vikings have offered Johnson an opportunity to return, but the decision will come down to money. Johnson made $2.45 million last season.

Johnson is Minnesota's only offensive starter from last year who remains a free agent. That takes it account Cordarrelle Patterson being a starter at wide receiver after having taken over late in the season from Jerome Simpson, who is a free agent.

Johnson said he has not yet spoken to new Vikings coach Mike Zimmer. But he was pleased with his hiring.

"It seems like they're heading in the right direction," Johnson said of the Vikings. "I know the front office got who they feel was the right guy.